Today’s Reading: Nehemiah 4-5; Ephesians 6; Hebrews 12:1-3

“What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they’re doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a single day by just offering a few sacrifices? Do they actually think they can make something of stones from a rubbish heap — and charred ones at that?” – Nehemiah 4:2

Things did not go easily as they rebuilt the wall. They faced criticism and opposition. The people would mock, “That stone wall would collapse if even a fox walked along the top of it!” (Nehemiah 4:3) Their response was to pray but eventually they became discouraged. Day after day they heard the voice of defeat saying that it could not be done, and they began to listen to that voice.

“The workers are getting tired, and there is so much rubble to be moved. We will never be able to build the wall by ourselves.” – Nehemiah 4:10

NEHEMIAH CHOSE TO DROWN OUT THE VOICE OF DEFEAT AND STAY FOCUSED ON THE TASK GOD HAD CALLED HIM TO.

Nehemiah had to do the same thing that we have to do daily — he had to DROWN OUT the voice of defeat! He had to push away the negativity and criticism in order to keep his eyes focused on the God who had called him to do hard things. His determination inspired those around him.

“Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!” – Nehemiah 4:14

After this, they changed their plan. While half of the men worked, the other half would stand armed with swords against the attacks. Some of the laborers used one hand to support the load while the other hand held a weapon. They carried their weapons with them at all times! We have the same weapon against the voice of defeat and opposition to God’s work; God has given us the same armor of protection to stand strong!

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body of armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. – Ephesians 6:10-18

Father God, help us to see a need and be willing to be part of the answer to that need. And when things get tough, when we face opposition, clothe us with your armor and give us the faith needed to drown out the voice of defeat. We love you, Lord. Amen.

Remember, my friend, that you are not alone. You are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who held onto their faith during difficult circumstances. So throw off anything that is hindering you from doing what God has called you to do; rid yourself of any sin that is causing you to trip or lose your footing. Instead, run with perseverance the race Jesus has marked out for you.

Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the One who gave you the gift of faith and continues to perfect it each day. When you are feeling the weight of what you are going through, consider what Jesus endured while here on earth. Do not grow weary; do not become discouraged and lose heart (Hebrews 12:1-3)